# The Social Services Complaints Procedure (Wales) Regulations 2005, Regulation 25: Procedure of the panel hearing


(1) In further considering the complaint the panel may adopt such procedures as it determines are most appropriate for dealing with the complaint.
(2) Before the panel determines to adopt a procedure for dealing with a complaint it must consult the complainant and any person who is the subject of the complaint.
(3) In the event of any disagreement as to the procedure that is to be adopted for dealing with the complaint the decision of the chair of the panel is final.
(4) The panel may make such enquiries and take such advice as it determines are appropriate.
(5) The panel must ensure that the complainant and any person who is the subject of the complaint are given the opportunity to present their case orally or, if they so wish, in writing.
(6) The panel or a member of the panel may interview any person who is not the complainant or a subject of the complaint if the panel considers that they may be able to provide information relevant to the complaint.
(7) At any interview or meeting with a panel member the complainant and any person who is the subject of the complaint may be accompanied by a relative or friend and by any person chosen by him or her to act as an adviser.
(8) A person accompanying a complainant or person who is the subject of a complaint may, with the consent of the chair of the panel, speak to the panel.
(9) Any meeting of the panel or of any member of the panel with another or with the complainant or any person who is the subject of the complaint shall be in private.

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Source: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/wsi/2005/3366/regulation/25 (the official version)
Page: https://openlegislation.uk/social-services-complaints-procedure-wales-regulations-2005/regulation-25
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Source: legislation.gov.uk, The National Archives.